Last Updated: May 2026
Losing files due to a hard drive failure, ransomware attack, or accidental deletion is one of the most frustrating experiences a computer user can have — and one of the most preventable. A solid backup routine takes minutes to set up and can save years of irreplaceable data. This guide covers exactly what to back up, how to do it, and the best tools available in 2026.
The 3-2-1 Backup Rule
Before diving into what to back up, it’s worth understanding the gold standard backup strategy: the 3-2-1 rule.